Click the above image to view a precious video of Candace!
“Did you know that I didn’t have a name until Mommy Theresa brought me and my mommy to the rescue? But now, I do have a name and it’s Candace! Mommy Theresa said every baby deserves a name. And guess what?!? My mommy has a name too – it’s Sophia! Isn’t that a pretty name? Both my mommy and I are feeling better. She really loves the alfalfa we get here. It’s nice to have good hay and to not have to eat weeds and leaves anymore. I do have a big surprise to share! Are you ready? Is it okay if we go back to the beginning of me and my mommy’s story – before we came here?
Before we came to Beauty’s Haven, we lived in a place where there wasn’t any grass so me and my mommy were hungry a lot. There were some trees for shade and we had water – we loved the water! Mommy would put her nose in it and swish it all around. I can’t remember what happened first – if I was too tired to nudge my mommy’s udders to get milk or if she was too hungry to even make milk for me. I just know the milk bar stopped working and I was so hungry and my mommy looked frustrated. I tried eating leaves but they weren’t good, and by the time I finished one, my energy was all gone. At some point, I lost my appetite even though my tummy was empty. My tummy was kind of big and puffy, even though you could see my ribs. I had sores and cuts all over me and my coat was missing hair in some places, but you know, I didn’t really feel any pain from them. But I seemed to get more tired each day. I wasn’t feeling very good, but I promised my mommy that I’d be a big girl and try to stay strong.
Then, a human came and started giving us hay and something called sweet feed each day! But my tummy started feeling not so good and I could hear my mommy’s tummy starting to make a lot of strange noises. Then guess what? It’s kind of embarrassing, but my poops got watery! A couple of days later, a man came who had a shiny gold star on his shirt. I heard him say that we needed a vet to examine us. The next day, another human came (Mommy Theresa) and she promised she’d be back to pick us up as soon as she got permission, and take us to a place called the rescue. She said that once we got there, we’d see a vet who would check us out and do tests to see what we needed to help us feel better. She said we’d never be hungry again! The very next day, she came back with a trailer. It seemed like it took forever for us to walk to it. I was just so tired. We had to stop a few times, but we finally made it and my mommy walked right on, but I needed help – I had run out of energy. We were only in the trailer a short time and when we got to the rescue, we saw green grass, hay, a shelter, and a big fan! We didn’t have a shelter or fan thing where we were living, so this was all new to me. There were humans at the farm who welcomed us and there were lots of horses that looked really happy. Even little itty bitty ones!
The vet poked us with needles and used something to listen to our hearts and tummies. The vet’s name was Dr. Emily and she had another nice person with her named Mandi. Dr. Emily gave me and my mommy something she said was good for us through what they called IV tubes. I heard everyone talking about how we needed lots of protein and good food. Since my mommy’s milk bar wasn’t working, they came up with a feeding plan so I could get stronger. Oh, I also have something called a three finger hernia under my tummy that needs to be fixed when my body is stronger. Mommy Theresa had already taken some of our poop and put it in a glove to see how much sand settled in the fingertips. Dr. Emily said it was a good amount. She took some more of my poop and some of my mom’s poop to test for what she said were parasites. Mommy Theresa told her that me and my mommy are Thoroughbreds and that my mommy once raced and had even won a couple of races! My mommy was a race horse! After they left, I nibbled on a little hay and then I laid down and slept. I slept really good – I was so tired. When I woke up, I could tell my mommy was more at ease which made me feel so much better.
A couple of days later after test results came back, Dr. Emily returned and reviewed with Mommy Theresa what we needed. She said my mommy has lots of strongyles, whatever that is, and she had given them to me through her milk because I had a lot too. It helped explain why, combined with not getting nutrition, our tummies look so big even though we are very underweight, and why my eyes are glassy, my coat is rough, I don’t have any muscle, I probably have ulcers, and why I feel so weak. They talked about how I wasn’t able to get milk from my mommy and what I should be fed. We need lots of good protein to help give us energy. Oh, and we have to take supplements. Some don’t taste good, but I take them anyway. I want to get strong and run around and play. Mommy Theresa and others here may not have seen me every time, but I did try the milk bar many times each day, but it was just broken.
Over the next couple of days, I met new aunties and they all love us! They said I’m very cute but way too skinny. Everyday, I kept trying to help myself to my mommy’s milk bar but it still wasn’t working. I did see Mommy Theresa get the milk bar to work a few times but I just couldn’t do it myself. But, I wasn’t going to give up. Over the last few days, I’ve been feeling better and now, I’m a bit stronger. I kept trying the milk bar and guess what????? I’m able to get milk from my mommy now! That’s right – the milk bar is working! That’s my surprise!
Thank you all so much for caring about me and my mommy! We promise to make you proud!”
Love,
Candace
Fly with the angels, sweet Nash
The last few days have been tough for us here at the rescue. One of the senior members of our beloved herd, Nash, had recently been having issues. Despite all the love and care he received, we had to make the decision to help Nash transition to Rainbow Bridge yesterday. It was the same exact day a year ago that we had to make this very same decision for Little E. For those of you who have a Beauty’s Haven 2021 Calendar, Nash was our September horse of the month. Nash had been with us since 2004, he was a horse with a huge heart and a great mind. Born in 1992, he was a grandson of Dash for Cash.
I don’t like to say or even type the word “cancer.” I just call it the “C” word. Knowing we often can’t fix a “C” issue, we do everything possible to help make the horse comfortable and cherish every moment we are given with them.
Nash had twice been adopted out, but each time, he ended up back here at the rescue, his home. Not all adopters are able (or willing) to keep their commitment to provide a ‘forever’ home even if it had been their intention at the time. Our adoption contract requires a horse to be returned, if, for any reason, the adopter can no longer adequately provide care for the horse or no longer wants the horse. It also provides a means for us to reclaim a horse should the adopter choose not to do what is necessary to provide adequate care when given the opportunity. Sadly, the first time Nash was adopted out, he was returned due to the adopter’s priorities changing. The last time Nash was adopted out, we had to reclaim him after the adopter chose not to address care issues following a veterinary exam.
We were very blessed to have had this magnificent horse in our lives. And now, he runs pain free at Rainbow Bridge alongside Little E, together with another of his best friends, Jake, and the remainder of our beloved horses who have joined the heavenly herd. Someday, we will all be joyously reunited.
Nash knew love and he will forever remain in each of our hearts.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Candace thriving, Jo holding her own
She’s Got Legs!
Candace was barely holding on the day we picked her up together with her momma, Sophia, (who has since asked that her name be changed to “Lady Sophia” so, “Lady Sophia” it is!). Both were in very poor condition, but they pulled through and I truly believe that they are going to be just fine. Both are happy and healthier and Candace is growing stronger by the day. Lady Sophia is simply stunning and is truly one of the sweetest mares I’ve ever met.
And now, for a guaranteed smile-maker: Click on the image above to view a video of Candace, and be certain that you watch until the end! Candace is a survivor, just like her momma and she is having a blast discovering just what her long legs can do!
It is because of each and every one of you that this little miracle and her momma are with us today.
Update on Jo
Dr. Wyman examined Jo last Tuesday. Blood tests were done and based upon the results, it appears that Jo (35 years old) is having age related kidney issues. We will be constantly monitoring Jo and modifying her diet and supplements. She’s such a very sweet mare. If anyone would like to help Jo with her recent vet bill and needed supplements (about $400), it would be so greatly appreciated. All contributions are tax deductible and no amount is ever too small. Thank you!
Prayers for Sweet Jo
Our precious 35 year old mare, Jo, is having a tough time today. She has a high temperature and refused to eat her breakfast which is quite unusual as Jo always looks forward to all of her five daily soupy meals. She is, however, trying to munch on some alfalfa. The vet has been scheduled to come out today.
Jo came to us in horrible condition in October, 2019 (Photo on the left). It took some time, but her rehab went well. She has few teeth which is the reason why she receives mushy meals. Her best friend, Dancer, (Pictured with Jo in the photo on the right) is also up there in age.
Would anyone like to pledge to help with Jo’s vet/health needs today? I don’t know what the cost will be but she’s going to need an examination to include bloodwork. Prayers would be appreciated as well.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Born to run!
So very blessed to be a part of Candace and Sophia’s life. They are improving by the day. How this filly pulled through with such great odds stacked against her was nothing short of a miracle. They arrived just two weeks ago today! Please click on Candace’s photo to view a video which will truly make your heart sing!
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!
Sincerely,
Theresa
Sophia & Candace taking it day by day
Thank you all for your love and support!
Sincerely,
Theresa
Happy Feet
Our farriers are scheduled every four to six weeks as the needs of each horse varies. If you would like to help sponsor a hooficure for which the average cost is $35, we would be forever grateful. You may forward your contribution via the ‘Donate’ button below. If donating via PayPal, please designate your contribution to “Happy Feet.”
Standing Tall
Candace here! Look how tall I’m standing now! I’m still really skinny but I’m better than I was and I’m going to keep getting better! Please click on my picture to the left to see a video of me standing tall while talking to my new friends!
Restoring Her Glory
Isn’t Sophia stunning? She is on her way to becoming the proud girl that she once was, thanks to the love and support from our amazing little village of friends and supporters!
PHOTO: Sophia on the track in her former life as a racehorse.
Candace’s BIG Surprise!
Click the above image to view a precious video of Candace!
“Did you know that I didn’t have a name until Mommy Theresa brought me and my mommy to the rescue? But now, I do have a name and it’s Candace! Mommy Theresa said every baby deserves a name. And guess what?!? My mommy has a name too – it’s Sophia! Isn’t that a pretty name? Both my mommy and I are feeling better. She really loves the alfalfa we get here. It’s nice to have good hay and to not have to eat weeds and leaves anymore. I do have a big surprise to share! Are you ready? Is it okay if we go back to the beginning of me and my mommy’s story – before we came here?
Before we came to Beauty’s Haven, we lived in a place where there wasn’t any grass so me and my mommy were hungry a lot. There were some trees for shade and we had water – we loved the water! Mommy would put her nose in it and swish it all around. I can’t remember what happened first – if I was too tired to nudge my mommy’s udders to get milk or if she was too hungry to even make milk for me. I just know the milk bar stopped working and I was so hungry and my mommy looked frustrated. I tried eating leaves but they weren’t good, and by the time I finished one, my energy was all gone. At some point, I lost my appetite even though my tummy was empty. My tummy was kind of big and puffy, even though you could see my ribs. I had sores and cuts all over me and my coat was missing hair in some places, but you know, I didn’t really feel any pain from them. But I seemed to get more tired each day. I wasn’t feeling very good, but I promised my mommy that I’d be a big girl and try to stay strong.
Then, a human came and started giving us hay and something called sweet feed each day! But my tummy started feeling not so good and I could hear my mommy’s tummy starting to make a lot of strange noises. Then guess what? It’s kind of embarrassing, but my poops got watery! A couple of days later, a man came who had a shiny gold star on his shirt. I heard him say that we needed a vet to examine us. The next day, another human came (Mommy Theresa) and she promised she’d be back to pick us up as soon as she got permission, and take us to a place called the rescue. She said that once we got there, we’d see a vet who would check us out and do tests to see what we needed to help us feel better. She said we’d never be hungry again! The very next day, she came back with a trailer. It seemed like it took forever for us to walk to it. I was just so tired. We had to stop a few times, but we finally made it and my mommy walked right on, but I needed help – I had run out of energy. We were only in the trailer a short time and when we got to the rescue, we saw green grass, hay, a shelter, and a big fan! We didn’t have a shelter or fan thing where we were living, so this was all new to me. There were humans at the farm who welcomed us and there were lots of horses that looked really happy. Even little itty bitty ones!
The vet poked us with needles and used something to listen to our hearts and tummies. The vet’s name was Dr. Emily and she had another nice person with her named Mandi. Dr. Emily gave me and my mommy something she said was good for us through what they called IV tubes. I heard everyone talking about how we needed lots of protein and good food. Since my mommy’s milk bar wasn’t working, they came up with a feeding plan so I could get stronger. Oh, I also have something called a three finger hernia under my tummy that needs to be fixed when my body is stronger. Mommy Theresa had already taken some of our poop and put it in a glove to see how much sand settled in the fingertips. Dr. Emily said it was a good amount. She took some more of my poop and some of my mom’s poop to test for what she said were parasites. Mommy Theresa told her that me and my mommy are Thoroughbreds and that my mommy once raced and had even won a couple of races! My mommy was a race horse! After they left, I nibbled on a little hay and then I laid down and slept. I slept really good – I was so tired. When I woke up, I could tell my mommy was more at ease which made me feel so much better.
A couple of days later after test results came back, Dr. Emily returned and reviewed with Mommy Theresa what we needed. She said my mommy has lots of strongyles, whatever that is, and she had given them to me through her milk because I had a lot too. It helped explain why, combined with not getting nutrition, our tummies look so big even though we are very underweight, and why my eyes are glassy, my coat is rough, I don’t have any muscle, I probably have ulcers, and why I feel so weak. They talked about how I wasn’t able to get milk from my mommy and what I should be fed. We need lots of good protein to help give us energy. Oh, and we have to take supplements. Some don’t taste good, but I take them anyway. I want to get strong and run around and play. Mommy Theresa and others here may not have seen me every time, but I did try the milk bar many times each day, but it was just broken.
Over the next couple of days, I met new aunties and they all love us! They said I’m very cute but way too skinny. Everyday, I kept trying to help myself to my mommy’s milk bar but it still wasn’t working. I did see Mommy Theresa get the milk bar to work a few times but I just couldn’t do it myself. But, I wasn’t going to give up. Over the last few days, I’ve been feeling better and now, I’m a bit stronger. I kept trying the milk bar and guess what????? I’m able to get milk from my mommy now! That’s right – the milk bar is working! That’s my surprise!
Thank you all so much for caring about me and my mommy! We promise to make you proud!”
Love,
Candace
Sophia & Candace Settling In
Momma and baby seem to be adjusting very well to their new environment. Candace has taken some nice long naps, her little body is very weak and the rest will do her good. Sophia has also laid flat on her side for some good REM sleep a few times. They are drinking well and enjoying their hay. Both girls like to stay under their shaded shelter where there is usually a breeze that comes through the side windows. We monitor their temperatures, manure (which is much better formed, albeit there is still evidence of sweet feed passing through their systems), how much they eat, the baby’s joints to see if there is any heat, water intake, etc. So far, their body temps have been normal or pretty close to it. However, they were somewhat elevated this evening.
Some have asked if we know how to feed and care for horses that are in such poor condition and if we have any experience doing so. We have noticed many new names following our efforts – we welcome new friends and followers as well as their questions! We invite you all to peruse the other posts on our blog and read about many of the horses we’ve helped since we established of Beauty’s Haven in 2006.
Our re-feeding program is based on the UC Davis Refeeding Program and yes, we do have many years of experience doing this. It’s a group effort and we truly are blessed to have an awesome, experienced, compassionate, and committed care team. Our vets, farriers, equine dentist, and volunteers are all key players. And we couldn’t do what we do without support from others – we appreciate all of you.
Please keep these precious girls in your prayers. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Momma Sophia & Baby Candace safe with us now
On Friday morning, when the mare and baby loaded up to come to the rescue, Momma knew – they always do – she walked right onto the trailer. Upon arrival, they both settled in nicely. Sadly, Baby is very weak.
Dr. Pulliam arrived shortly thereafter and examined Momma and her baby. Blood and other tests were performed. Both received fluids and the baby received a vitamin cocktail – she was such a good girl. We did a glove sand test on the Momma and discovered that there is quite a bit of sand in her manure which was not at all surprising. There is a concern about the sweet feed which they were fed the past few days prior to their arrival at Beauty’s Haven which could have a negative impact. Both are receiving supplements to help with ulcers, their GI tract and immune system.
She does have a good size hernia that will need to be addressed once she is considerably more healthy. Momma has little to no milk to offer and is also in poor condition. We’ll see what the blood work and other test results reveal today and provide an update as soon as possible. Momma and Baby have, and will continue to be, watched around the clock. The baby had not been handled before we met her on Thursday, but she has been a very brave little girl.
This baby needs a miracle, but here, at Beauty’s Haven, we believe in miracles and have experienced many in past years. She also has to have a strong will to live – it’s amazing that she is still standing.
If anyone would like to help it would be so greatly appreciated. Contributions can be made via the ‘Donate’ button below. Please designate your donation to ‘Sophia & Candace.’ Please also note that another wonderful friend and supporter has offered a second $500 Match Game, whereby, all donations up to $500 will be matched dollar for dollar. If you are not in a position to donate at this time, we truly understand, but you can still help by sharing this email amongst family and friends.
We truly appreciate your love, support, prayers and well wishes.
Please keep Sophia and Candace in your prayers.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Mare with baby barely hanging on
It’s been a very long and exhausting day. We have an urgent need at hand – a foal who is in a very bad way. Her mama is also in bad shape and gets irritated if the baby tries to nurse as she has little to no milk to offer. The baby has bite marks on her little body and a hernia that needs to be surgically repaired. When I visited yesterday, I about lost it when I saw her stagger over and attempt to eat weeds as well as leaves off a tree.
With ribs protruding, these horses’ obvious lack of nutrition, especially protein, is evident by their low, big bellies. Ulcers and parasites are likely, contributing factors to their poor condition as well.
Starvation causes the body to use up its body stores of fat, muscle, and then organs. It causes weakness, impairs gut function, wound healing, and affects the overall immune system. Internal organs atrophy. Bone growth can also be impacted in young horses. It’s a horrible thing.
Thankfully, someone cared enough to do something when they saw these two precious horses and made a call to county authorities. It’s an open case but we were given the okay to pick up the mare and baby this morning. We did make certain that they had enough hay to last through the night. Please – we need your help to help them. They deserve a chance.
Vetting is going to be costly. They need everything – blood tests, fecal exams, the mare will need dental work. They both need to see the farrier. And just as important, they need financial support for as long as they are here. They are Thoroughbreds.
I’m deeply concerned about the financial assistance we need for these horses. Donations continue to be down since the arrival of COVID and we still haven’t raised enough funds to pay the farrier bill. We need a ton of orchard hay for the herd ($600+) today and we will need alfalfa as well. The utility vehicle broke down yesterday with a cost of $376 to repair. There are so many things that need to be addressed, but we just cannot walk away from this mare and baby – time is simply not on their side.
If anyone would like to help Baby & Mama, it would be so greatly appreciated. Contributions can be made via the ‘Donate’ button below. Please designate your donation to ‘Baby & Mare.’ Please also note that there is currently a $500 Match Game in progress, whereby all donations up to $500 will be matched dollar for dollar.
If you are not in a position to donate at this time we truly understand, but you can still help by sharing this amongst family and friends. Thank you, all, so very much!
Please keep Baby & her Mama in your prayers.
Sincerely,
Theresa
P.S. Some of you may remember baby Tonka. He was in about the same condition when we brought him and his mom to the rescue many years ago. Sadly, it was too late for Tonka. We pray we’re not too late for this little girl. If you don’t know about Tonka, here is a video in his memory:
From hooves to teeth, rescue care from the ground up!
It was a very busy day at the rescue this past Thursday. Dr. Bess Darrow (Tune-Ups Equine Dentistry) spent a good part of the day at Beauty’s Haven taking care of many teeth. Scooter and Simba did great as did Belle Star, Chloe and Nicky, our very sweet blind mare. Actually everyone was good, except for CaryLou who decided he didn’t want to cooperate and opted to make faces to share his displeasure. He’s always starting or getting into something – he’s a hoot! Peaches’s examination revealed that she has not lost any additional teeth and thankfully, all was fine with Luiji as well. Lucy and Peggy Sue were rescheduled for another day as they were not sweating. It truly was a very productive day!
If anyone would like to help with our dental bill, it would be so greatly appreciated. We have already received a number of donations but we are still in need of $750 to have the entire bill covered. Donations can be made via the ‘Donate’ button below. All donations are greatly appreciated and no amount is ever too small. If you are not in a position to donate at this time we truly understand, but you can still help by sharing this with family and friends. Thank you all, so very much!
Sincerely,
Theresa
Hooficures Part Deux
A big Thank You to our wonderful friends and supporters who contributed to the first round of this week’s “Hooficures”! As promised, we are now seeking sponsorship for the remaining members of our herd that were on the farrier’s schedule this week, including CaryLou, Lucy, Bouie, Frodo, Sassy and Scooter, to name but a few. The average cost is $35 – if you can help, we would be forever grateful. Just visit our Donation page for multiple options. Please note that your contribution is for “Farrier.”
Bonus! Remember, everyone who donates toward farrier care will be eligible for a chance to win a lovely necklace created by a very dear friend and supporter. Once the “Hooficure” fundraiser is complete, three names will be randomly drawn. The winners, in order of selection, will then be notified via email or social media private message as to which necklace they would prefer. (Please note, these necklaces contain faux gemstones.) For more details, click here.